Distribution Center Planning and Design

JSC’s distribution center planning, design and implementation engineering services are packaged to provide flexibility depending on the needs of each client’s organization. JSC provides the experience and know-how to assess an operation’s status quo and determine the data-driven requirements to support efficient distribution or fulfillment center operations. The end result is the ability to offer a turnkey implementation of a new facility, expanded facility, or renovated facility.

Following an intensive data collection process, the JSC Space Planner^sm is adapted to the specifics of each client operation. This tool determines not only the total space required for each task within the facility but also the details of the facility. These details include the number of dock doors, workstations for each task, full time employees required for each task, space required for breakrooms and other common areas, battery charging space required, and potential mezzanine space activities.

JSC develops a DC Requirements Definition which documents inputs for MHE Technology Assessments. Determining the right types of equipment and automation for each specific area is the key to maximizing return on investment. JSC evaluates multiple Material Handling Equipment/Automation technologies for processes within the facility. Return on Investment and Internal Rate of Return are calculated to select the appropriate levels of MHE technology for each facility.

Our services deliver a detailed design that addresses capacity requirements, improved service levels to customers, and reduced operating expenses. All these deliverables are critical in today’s explosively growing omni-channel supply chains.

The DC Requirements Definition is then used as input for Technology Assessment. Determining the right types of equipment and automation for each specific area is the key to maximizing return on investment. ROI and IRR are the determining factors for selecting the appropriate levels of technology for each facility.

After exhaustive analysis to determine the requirements and technology, the layout and design of the facility can be effectively developed. Johnson Stephens Consulting will utilize the results of analysis to prepare conceptual design options for consideration. Preparing multiple options allows for a collaborative effort with each client to select the best possible layout to meet quantitative and subjective requirements. The detailed dimensions of the MHE system are then added to the design to create the detailed design. Johnson Stephens Consulting strives to provide seamless paths of expansion for every design. Providing for growth well beyond the original planning horizon minimizes future disruptions when additional capacity is required.

Detailed design provides overhead views and side view elevation Computer Aided Design (AutoCAD) drawings for all of the equipment to be utilized in the distribution center.

JSC Professionals also employ the industry-leading warehouse design software, Slot3D^tm, an economic-based slotting tool that is fully integrated with AutoCAD. This versatile tool enables fixed, labor, and capital costs to be fully considered to ensure that SKUs are optimally slotted for order picking and fulfillment.